Thursday March 7, 2013

New Museum of Archaeology Proposed

Plans to convert an architecturally unique building in Arrecife into the Museum of Archaeology in Lanzarote have run into difficulties already due to a considerable increase in the purchase price of the proposed site.

The building in Calle Fajardo, which dates from the 1920’s will be purchased by the Cabildo of Lanzarote for a price of €1,650,000, which is substantially higher than the initial valuation of €1,120,000.

It is estimated that a further unspecified amount will need to be spent on renovating the interior and fitting it for the purposes of museum displays. And as yet this budget has not been secured. Meaning that the project may take some years to be finalised.

The decision to proceed with the purchase was discussed at a session of the Lanzarote Government this week, at which meeting approval was also given for €145,000 to be spent on finishing the renovations at the Cultural Centre El Almacen, also located in Arrecife. Amongst the works necessary to the building are will be the installation of a lift and fire doors, to bring it in line with Health and Safety requirements.

Funding was also approved for the creation of a new access route to the Charco de los Clicos at El Golfo, after the pedestrian walkway running up from the south to the green lagoon was recently closed due to debris falling from the cliffs. A new pathway will be formed, running from the village of El Golfo to the tourist attraction, at a cost of €220,000.